(The Center Square) — Two days after a Georgia gangway collapsed at Sapelo Island, lawmakers are calling for a thorough investigation.
Seven people died, and several were injured Saturday afternoon in the collapse that occurred during an annual celebration of the Gullah Geechee community.
The gangway was inspected less than a year ago by the Crescent Equipment Company, the Department of Natural Resources said in a news conference Sunday. It was built in 2021, the department said in an email to The Center Square.
Sen. Mike Hodge, R-Brunswick, whose district includes Sapelo Island, said Monday that the island, especially the Gullah Geechee community, has a rich cultural heritage.
“We commend the swift response of the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, local, state, and federal agencies, and all the first responders who have worked tirelessly in the rescue and recovery efforts,” Hodges said. “We deeply appreciate their dedication during such a difficult time. As the investigation continues, we remain committed to ensuring that the necessary steps are taken to support the community and those affected by this tragedy.”
Hodge’s Senate colleague, Sen. Nikki Merritt D-Grayson, said in a social media post on Monday that she received “concerning reports” about the gangway’s safety.
“These oversights could have potentially prevented the recent tragedy,” Merritt said on X.
She said the Georgia Legislative Black Caucus and the Sapelo community would hold a news conference later on Monday.
“We need to look into why state and county agencies failed to follow safety checks or inspection procedures,” Merritt said.
U.S. Rep. Buddy Carter, R-Ga., who represents the district in Congress, called the loss “unimaginable.”
“The Gullah-Geechee community deserves our unwavering support during this challenging time,” Carter said. “Thank you to the first responders and all who have worked tirelessly to assist those in need. Their bravery and dedication remind us that, in times of crisis, Georgians come together. As we investigate how this tragedy occurred, we must ensure that it is done in a thorough and timely manner. Safety is our top concern, and we must take all necessary steps to prevent a tragedy like this from occurring again.”
The Sapelo Island Ferry reopened Monday using an auxiliary dock, according to the Department of Natural Resources.
